As part of the Puerto Rican tech community, we are excited and proud that Google has chosen Puerto Rico as the testing ground for its Project Ara, “Mobile First” smartphone initiative. Although it may have raised eyebrows among some in the global technology community, we think it makes perfect sense. Here’s why:
- Technical skill and technological advancement—our engineering schools rival those of mainland US and other leading global institutions. Did you know, for example, that engineering-intensive companies like Boeing, Raytheon, and HP recruit huge numbers of University of Puerto Rico graduates each year?
- Economic sense and sensibility—as a resource for nearshoring, including technology solutions like the ones we develop for our customers, Puerto Rico is an economically viable alternative to other outsourcing regions, where language barriers, time zone differences, and a code-to-the-spec approach to development limits the value of projects managed elsewhere
- Proximity to the US and connectivity to the rest of the world—as Google itself noted, “Puerto Rico is a gateway from the U.S. to the world…It is well-connected as a communications, logistics and trade hub.” We’re both close geographically and interconnected culturally, with a largely bilingual population and highly trained, skilled workforce that “gets” US culture—because we live it.
Like other technology leaders in the Commonwealth, we will be keeping a close eye on the results and insights that emerge from Project Ara. And we look forward to seeing how Google’s launch here in Puerto Rico will shine a spotlight on our technology capabilities that can impact the whole world.
In conclusion, Puerto Rico’s mobile-first culture has created a unique ecosystem for mobile app development and innovation. As one of the most connected regions in the world, Puerto Rico has become a hub for mobile app development, with a growing number of talented developers and tech startups.
Puerto Rico’s mobile-first culture has been driven by a number of factors, including the widespread use of mobile devices, the high adoption rate of social media, and the island’s unique geography. These factors have created a fertile ground for mobile app development, with developers and entrepreneurs alike taking advantage of the island’s unique ecosystem to create innovative new products and services.
The Puerto Rican government has recognized the potential of the mobile app industry and has taken steps to support its growth. In recent years, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to attract tech startups to the island, including tax incentives, grants, and funding programs. This support has helped to fuel the growth of the mobile app industry in Puerto Rico and has positioned the island as a key player in the global tech landscape.
Overall, Puerto Rico’s mobile-first culture is an exciting and dynamic ecosystem for mobile app development and innovation. With a growing community of talented developers, a supportive government, and a unique set of market conditions, Puerto Rico is poised to continue its growth as a hub for mobile app development and entrepreneurship. As the mobile app industry continues to evolve and mature, it will be fascinating to see how Puerto Rico’s mobile-first culture evolves and adapts to the changing landscape.
